Today, Zach sits down with friend and community leader, Doug Belisle. From his beginnings as a pastor to his current role as the director of the Good Neighbor Homeless Shelter in Cartersville, Doug shares how his career has been shaped by purpose, people, family and faith.
You’ll hear about how Doug unexpectedly stepped into this role and how it’s transformed his view of financial struggles, homelessness, and what true community support looks like. He gives an inside look at the shelter’s transitional housing program, the realities of nonprofit funding, and the powerful impact of community involvement through events like Dancing With the Stars and Night in a Box.
They also dive into the personal side of leadership- raising teenagers, preparing for college transitions, and why being present at home is one of the most important ways we lead. Don’t miss this great conversation as Doug reminds us that success isn’t just about doing great things- it’s about doing your best and staying grounded in what really matters.
Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:
🏠 Inside the mission and growth of Good Neighbor Homeless Shelter
👨👧👦 Doug’s personal journey as a dad and leader
🛠️ Why community support makes all the difference in non-profit work
❤️ Lessons on faith, character, and raising grounded kids
0:00 – Intro
2:54 – Doug’s background
6:45 – What led Doug to his current role
11:03 – Misconceptions about homelessness
14:32 – Transitional housing + the realities of non-profit funding
22:40 – Supporting Good Neighbor
39:32 – Balancing work and fatherhood
46:37 – Raising kids with intentionality and faith
52:45 – Rapid fire questions
Resources for this episode:
Good Neighbor Homeless Shelter
https://goodneighborshelter.org/
Donate to Good Neighbor